What to do and in what order to do it in is a common question that couples have--an agenda is needed. An "Agenda" can be defined as the written or spoken rules for social control. Ever wonder where we got our etiquette training when it came to social events and planning the order of things? Following the example of our family members, cultural upbringing, other families, and traditions, we find ourselves repeating what was see or taught.
Ceremonial procedure has been around since day one. Formality of the greeting to the bid of farewell draws us to wonder if our knowledge evolved from some ancient tribal ceremony? Only you can best answer this question.
New rituals and customs seen to pop up every year as well as long lost practices or newly invented ones. The church dictates some. Remind yourself of things that other event coordinators included in events that you attended.
Ceremonial agendas may include scripture readings, prose pieces and poetry, and special candle lighting. You must decide on audience participation, involvement of your wedding party, children and family members. Set the tone of your event at the beginning. For inspirational, consider having the bells ring three times before the greeting is provided. Lighting a special candle for a deceased loved one will provide a special presence. If appropriate, have the grandparents involved in a special way. Have couples married 25 years or more be recognized or go to the altar to circle the bride and groom during a special poetry reading.
For practical matters, consider the following order of service, and add your own creativity.
1. Bells chime three times
2. Greetings and welcome by the pastor
3. Blessings by the bride's parents
4. Special candle lighting(s)
5. Scripture reading and prayer
6. Music
7. Homily or the pastor's message
8. Exchange of Vows and Rings
9. Unity candle
10.Special music selection
11.Signing of marriage certificate and license
12.Benediction
13.Presentation of the couple
14.Bells chime three times or trumpet plays
After the ceremony, keep the flow continuous with ceremonial rituals and customs. Provide your guests with special favors or remembrances cards. Have a balloon release set up as guests file out of the church or ceremony location.
Display items can be used not only for the reception, but also the wedding ceremony. Guests can be required to sign the guest book, view pre-engagement photo displays, and a shadowbox display filled with wedding memorabilia. These items can easily be transferred to the reception.
Consider organizing an agenda for the reception as well. The usual agenda involves the cake cutting and bouquet and garter toss. Build on these traditions and incorporate more reception activities.
Consider the following list:
1. Introduction of the wedding party, parents and newlyweds
2. First dance and wedding party dance
3. The Polish custom of the “dollar dance”
4. Receiving line
5. Chiming of the glasses as an announcement for a toast
6. Roasting the bride and groom
7. Children’s dance, then teens
8. The “singles dance”
9. Cake Cutting
10. Recognition of those married 50 or more years, then 25, 20, 15, 10, 5 and 2 hours
11. The community dance—bride and groom adds on all guests to the line
12. Bouquet and garter toss
Whatever tribal customs you claim, remember that having an agenda will enhance your celebration and preserve your memories for a lifetime.
No comments:
Post a Comment